During an initial meeting, members will be encouraged to talk about their current circumstances and to think about what would be helpful in terms of improving their quality of life. With the support of the Outreach worker, members can develop new skills and strategies to minimise the problems associated with sight loss or have access to appropriate low vision aids or technology in their own home. In doing so, members will be helped to maintain or work towards a more independent way of life with increased confidence.

 

Social contacts and activities may be developed in a community setting and the Outreach workers will assist people in building sustainable support networks in their own neighborhood. This can be done through supporting the member pursue leisure and social interests or education and employment opportunities.

 

Importantly, the Outreach service also aims to support families to sustain their relationships, to deal with their relative’s visual impairment and to cope with the life changes arising from their disability.

 

Our Outreach Workers will ensure they provide regular one-to-one meetings with the member, and their family if necessary. This will include emotional support, providing information on accessing equipment/adaptations, advice on benefits, housing, overcoming barriers to training and/or work, advocacy and referrals/signposting to other agencies.

 

Finding the best available resources to support our members to live fulfilling lives in their own communities will be at the forefront of our Outreach Service. This will include dealing with statutory and voluntary agencies and offering assistance with benefits.